The work that geologists do takes them from the office to the laboratory to rugged terrain, underground mines and the ocean floor. Some geologists are generalists, while others specialize in subfields such as seismology, petroleum geology, geophysics and mineralogy. If you are looking for a career with an exciting lifestyle, then geology offers many advantages.

Careers in Geology

Careers in geology are found in construction, energy, environmental protection, disaster detection and many other areas affected by the physical world. Geologists help build highways, predict earthquakes and volcanic eruptions and lay pipelines for natural gas and oil. For the individual who does not wish to be office-bound, geology is an ideal career since much of the geologist’s work is done in the field. It is an ideal career for the adventurous, for field work can take you to remote parts of the world. For the fitness buff it can be physically challenging. Geologists monitor earthquakes on the Pacific Rim to give advance tsunami warnings; they observe volcanoes to detect signs of eruptions; and, of course, they do tamer things like study rock layers to ensure that skyscrapers have stable foundations. Geologists find employment in energy, engineering, and scientific organizations, and government entities.

Petroleum Geologists

Petroleum geologists are the highest paid in the profession. Mining and petroleum geologists earned an average of $139,000 in 2011 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Much of the geologist’s time is dedicated to studying underground rock formations in the quest for recoverable oil and gas. Fracking has opened new dimensions for the geologist to study. As a petroleum geologist, you have multiple opportunities -- depending on your interests. You might find yourself on a Gulf oil rig, in the hills of North Dakota or in a Middle Eastern oilfield. While any job carries some administrative duties, the advantages of a career as a petroleum geologist with an entrepreneurial mindset are virtually limitless.

Career Outlook

As the economy recovers from the 2007 to 2009 recession, the outlook for employment as a geologist looks good. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 21 percent growth in the field from 2010 to 2020. Pay scales for geologists vary with education and experience -- the median salary for geoscientists, which includes geologists, in 2010 was $82,500. Most geologists have a master’s degree, although that is not necessary for entry-level positions. An advanced degree is a requirement for academic positions -- jobs that offer the advantage of a stable university income with the opportunity to pursue grant money and engage in research projects of your choice.

Diffusing Drawbacks

To balance the many advantages of a career in geology, you must consider drawbacks. If you enjoy the freedom of working outdoors much of the time, the career is ideal for you, but if you prefer the security of an office, you might not enjoy it. You can have the option of working in physically challenging -- even risky -- locations. If that is not your choice there are other geology jobs that can keep you closer to home. Geologists may work long and sometimes irregular hours, particularly when engaged in field work. If you love what you do, this can be an opportunity rather than a drawback. Some work geologists do is cyclical, but no more so than many other jobs. A career in geology provides many choices, many challenges and much fulfilling work.

About the Author

Thomas Metcalf has worked as an economist, stockbroker and technology salesman. A writer since 1997, he has written a monthly column for "Life Association News," authored several books and contributed to national publications such as the History Channel's "HISTORY Magazine." Metcalf holds a master's degree in economics from Tufts University.